Skin Cancer Removal FAQ

What is Skin Cancer Removal?

The surgical removal of skin cancer is a procedure frequently performed by plastic surgeons. Because skin cancer will not disappear spontaneously, surgical removal is a treatment option. There are many different techniques for removing skin cancers. Various surgical procedures may be involved in reconstruction after the skin cancer is removed.

Who is a good candidate for Skin Cancer Removal?

The best candidates for Skin Cancer removal is someone with a suspicious lesion which needs to be removed. 

Where is the scar from Skin Cancer Removal?

The scar from this procedure will usually be in the same location as the lesion.

What are the possible risks of Skin Cancer Removal?

Potential risks include bleeding, infection, seroma, pain, scarring, numbness, asymmetry, healing issues, need for additional surgery. Dr. Sood will discuss these risks further during your consultation.

What is the typical recovery time for a Skin Cancer Removal?

This procedure is done as an outpatient, usually with local anesthesia.  You will be sent home on pain medicine and antibiotics. Recovery time will depend on extent of skin cancer removal.

When do I return for a follow up visit?

You will need to be seen within a week after surgery. From there Dr. Sood will determine when you need to follow up.

How long before I can return to work?

Most patients are able to return to work within a few days, depending on the extent of skin cancer revision.

How long before I can return to normal activity?

Most activities of daily living can be resumed within a couple of days. It is important to get up and move around within a day of surgery to help decrease the chance of developing a blood clot. Strenuous activities should be avoided for about 1-2 weeks or until Dr. Sood has given you clearance

Dr. Sood's primary goal is to provide excellent clinical results along with a high level of patient care and service. Patient satisfaction is our highest concern. We are dedicated to providing every patient with a pleasant experience, beginning with the first visit and continuing on through surgical procedures and treatments and postoperative care. We encourage patients to evaluate the benefits as well as the risks of each procedure within the confines of realistic expectations.